Red Sea Global has announced that its latest luxury property, Desert Rock, is now taking reservations. Nestled in a stunning mountain desert landscape, this engineering marvel will welcome its first guests in this month. As the fifth property in The Red Sea destination and the third self-operated resort by RSG, Desert Rock is set to redefine the meaning of luxury and sustainability in hospitality.
“We are ready to welcome guests to Desert Rock, our third self-operated hotel in the Red Sea Global hospitality portfolio,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of RSG. “This is more than just a hotel—it is a unique property, crafted into the rock face, offering a truly immersive experience where luxury and nature come together to create a truly unforgettable escape.”
A seamless blend of architecture and nature
Desert Rock spans 30,000 square metres of untouched desert terrain, where the mountains meet the sands. The resort’s architecture is ingeniously designed to integrate into the natural rocky outcrops, reflecting RSG’s commitment to preserving the pristine environment.
Just 20 minutes from Red Sea International Airport, Desert Rock offers unparalleled convenience and remoteness for guests seeking tranquillity, adventure, or both. Accommodations range from pool villas and luxury suites to private retreats, all of which immerse guests in the dramatic landscape.
An integral part of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Red Sea Project, the resort exemplifies a harmonious blend of innovative architecture and sustainable design. It is the brainchild of Oppenheim Architecture, a Miami-based firm renowned for its environmentally conscious designs that seamlessly integrate with natural landscapes.
The architectural vision for Desert Rock focuses on embedding the resort within the ancient granite mountains, creating a structure that coexists with its surroundings. The design incorporates indoor and outdoor spaces nestled within crevices and caves or positioned on shaded slopes, utilising cooler microclimates to minimise solar gain. This approach not only camouflages the architecture during the day but also allows the structures to glow like lanterns at night, enhancing the natural beauty of the massif.
The interior design, encompassing public spaces, food and beverage outlets, the spa, and guest rooms, is crafted by Studio Paolo Ferrari, a Toronto-based design studio recognised for its thoughtful and contemporary aesthetic.
Construction of Desert Rock has presented unique challenges, particularly in tunnelling through the rugged terrain. The construction team has successfully completed 195 meters of tunnelling, a significant milestone that underscores the project’s commitment to integrating with the natural environment.
In line with Red Sea Global’s dedication to sustainability, Desert Rock adheres to the highest standards of environmental responsibility, as outlined in the international LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification. The resort prioritizes eco-friendly practices in both construction and operation, aiming to minimise carbon dioxide emissions, reduce energy consumption, create green spaces, and utilise rainwater.
Unique accommodations inspired by the desert
The resort features a diverse range of accommodation options, each designed to harmonise with its natural surroundings:
- Wadi villas: Spacious one- and two-bedroom villas with private pools, ideal for families seeking desert-inspired relaxation.
- Cliff hanging villas: Elevated accommodations offering breathtaking views of the desert and mountains.
- Mountain cave suites: Built directly into the rock face, these one-bedroom suites provide ultimate privacy, cliffside plunge pools, and inspiring vistas.
- Royal villa: A three-bedroom retreat offering unmatched luxury, expansive living spaces, and top-tier service, perfect for families or celebratory gatherings.
- Mountain crevice villas: Perched on the edge of the massif, these gravity-defying villas feature private pools and panoramic views of the landscape.
World-class dining with a local twist
Dining at Desert Rock is an experience in itself, with four world-class venues showcasing global and local flavours:
- Nyra: The resort’s signature dining venue, led by Michelin-starred chef Osman Sezener, specialises in wood-fire cooking with locally sourced ingredients.
- Mica: A sophisticated, non-alcoholic bar offering creative mocktails and small plates inspired by the flavours of Nyra.
- Basalt: A vibrant spot serving modern Indian cuisine, accompanied by live music, dance, and fire shows.
- Wadi: A poolside grill and bar with a Peruvian twist, complete with live DJ sets for a lively yet relaxed atmosphere.
- The Observatory: A stargazer’s haven with craft mocktails, gourmet pastries, and an ambience perfect for late-night relaxation.
Wellness at the heart of Desert Rock
The resort’s wellness offerings include five treatment rooms, a private hammam, water therapy facilities, an outdoor treatment space, and a yoga pavilion. Guests can also partake in aerial yoga sessions, reconnecting with nature while focusing on their physical and mental well-being.
A commitment to sustainability
As part of Red Sea Global’s regenerative tourism ethos, Desert Rock is designed to minimise environmental impact. The resort is powered entirely by renewable energy, with every aspect of its development focused on preserving the surrounding ecosystem. The architectural team faced immense challenges in blending the structures seamlessly into the natural rock formations, achieving a result that is as sustainable as it is visually stunning.
“Every detail of Desert Rock reflects our dedication to responsible tourism,” said Pagano. “We’ve created a destination that enhances the environment and provides a luxurious escape in one of the world’s most untouched landscapes.”
Now accepting reservations
Desert Rock is now open for reservations, with an exclusive introductory offer celebrating its grand opening. Guests booking two consecutive nights will receive a third night free, while those reserving 45 days in advance can enjoy a 20% discount.
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Read also: Aradhana Khowala: redefining travel, tourism, and hospitality on the Red Sea coast
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Photos courtesy of Red Sea Global
